Title: r/Cybersecurity to Go Private: A Call for Action Against Reddit’s API Changes
In response to widespread community feedback, the r/cybersecurity subreddit will temporarily transition to a private forum from June 12th to June 14th. This decision comes as a stand against Reddit’s recent changes to its API policies, which threaten the existence of third-party applications that many users rely on.
The overwhelming sentiment among our community members is clear: there is a strong desire for Reddit to reconsider and revise the new restrictions imposed on third-party apps. Consequently, unless the platform decides to reverse these changes, our subreddit will engage in a 48-hour blackout starting June 12th, with an official end date of June 14th. In the event that Reddit maintains its stance, we will seek input from our community on how to proceed—whether to extend the protest or explore alternative actions.
During this blackout, r/cybersecurity will not be accessible to new members or users who are not logged in. We strongly encourage everyone to refrain from visiting Reddit during this period. If you have suggestions for activities or discussions that could take place during the blackout—such as limiting new posts and comments or facilitating introductions to alternative platforms like Mastodon, Lemmy, or Bluesky—please share your thoughts in the comments below.
The outcome of this situation is uncertain; Reddit may choose to reconsider its API strategy, or it could take further measures that could erode trust within the community, such as removing moderators or compelling the subreddit to remain public against our desires. Regardless of the path ahead, it has been a privilege to serve this community.
For additional details and context surrounding these developments, check out the following resources:
- A concise infographic highlighting the key issues at stake.
- A discussion post titled “Don’t Let Reddit Kill Third-Party Apps,” outlining the implications of these changes.
- An open letter addressing the ongoing situation regarding API pricing and its impact on moderators and subreddit communities.
- A comprehensive list of major Reddit communities participating in the blackout.
Stay engaged and informed as we navigate this critical moment together. Your voice matters!
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